Hot topics in February

Rio – One city, two faces

Legendary beaches, a picturesque and vibrant harbor district and the wide expanse of the Atlantic Ocean right on its doorstep. Rio owes much of its unique charm to its beachside location, although the city is surrounded by steep cliffs and majestic mountains, too. We take a look at both sides.

Sporting Playground

Soccer world champion? Please, Brazil, make it happen next time around! Why not start practicing right now? With a round of beach soccer on Botafogo beach.

Gaining ground

A stroll along the quays? What was once a dangerous district is now perfect for a leisurely walk: The former no-go area is now considered Rio’s new model quarter.

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Endless summer

Great waves and warm water all year round: Rio is a brilliant destination for surfers, who should head for the beaches west of the city center to enjoy the best conditions.

Go topless

Hire a convertible, put the top down and cruise from Rio to Angra dos Reis along one of the most spectacularly beautiful coastal roads anywhere in Brazil.

Stiff breeze

Park the car and hop on board a boat: The best way to explore Ilha Grande, an island just off the coast of Angra dos Reis, is to sail around it on a two-master.

Body cult

Brawny arms and ripped abs – Rio’s beaches are a gigantic catwalk. Thanks to the sports equipment here, they also double up as great open-air gyms.

Bohemian charm

Colorful cottages and twisty lanes: Santa Teresa, the city’s traditional arty quarter, is like a village – except that it happens to be on a hill at the heart of Rio.

Head for heights

Taking a cable car up the Sugar Loaf? How ordinary! Climbing to the top is far more exciting! The twin mountains Dois Irmãos are also popular climbing spots.

The sky’s the limit

Pico da Tijuca, Rio’s tallest mountain, soars 1022 meters into the sky. The path to the summit takes you through lush rainforest.

Viewpoint

Hong Kong? No, we’re still in Rio. From the Chinese pavilion situated at a height of 380 meters in Tijuca National Park, you enjoy a specular view over the entire city.

Cross-country

Full speed ahead: Race downhill from the pavilion to the city center on a mountain bike. The Olympic mountain bike course will soon also be open to amateurs.

Seeing red

Spectacular panoramas? In Rio, these aren’t limited to the mountaintops. One of the best places for a sundowner is the rooftop pool lounge at the design hotel Fasano.